PUBLIC NOTICE: Surface Water Treatment Technique: Non-Acute Event

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) sets minimum water quality standards for public drinking water. These standards include enforceable treatment technique requirements for drinking water. Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.
The City of Commerce, PWS ID TX1160003, failed to meet the minimum treatment technique requirements for the month of January 2026. Specifically, our water system had: low Disinfection Contact Time (CT) for more than four consecutive hours.
 

This happened ONLY during the extreme arctic temperatures of January 26th – January 31st. Extreme cold conditions require more time for the disinfection chemicals (chloramines) to be effective. However, with most customers in town dripping faucets to preserve their plumbing, the Treatment Plant could not reduce production to accommodate the additional time. During this time, staff monitored both the disinfectant residual in the distribution system and performed independent bacterial sample testing. ALL tests and samples exceeded state and federal quality standards. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BOIL YOUR WATER.
 

If you have any questions regarding this matter, you may contact Timothy Jones, Public Works Director, at (903)886-1122.
 

Posted: February 10, 2026
Delivered: Feb. 23, Mar. 2, & Mar. 10, 2026